Thomas Goodson Identified as Victim in Stafford SWAT Standoff; Suspect Adrian Mercado Dead, Officer Survives Gunfire

Thomas Goodson Identified as Victim in Stafford SWAT Standoff; Suspect Adrian Mercado Dead, Officer Survives Gunfire

STAFFORD, TX — A violent overnight SWAT standoff in Stafford ended with two people dead — including suspect Adrian Mercado, 35 — and one officer narrowly escaping serious injury after being struck by gunfire, according to the Stafford Police Department.

How It Began

The incident started shortly before 10 p.m. Wednesday when a man walked into the Stafford Police Department and told officers that his son, Mercado, had killed someone at a home on Lawrence Lane near Stafford Road. The man warned police that Mercado was armed and dangerous.

Responding officers discovered the body of 32-year-old Thomas Goodson in the backyard of the residence. His remains had been wrapped in a blanket and concealed under plywood, investigators confirmed.

Gunfire Erupts

As officers and a Missouri City K-9 Unit attempted to enter the home, Mercado opened fire. One Stafford officer was hit, but his radio deflected the bullet, saving his life. Despite the close call, the officer — a two-year veteran of the department — refused to leave the scene.

“He actually stayed on scene for a while; he did not want to leave. He wanted to see it through to the end. He wasn’t injured, so I commend him for trying to see the job through,” said Lt. Luciano Lopez.

Standoff and SWAT Response

Gunfire continued intermittently for nearly 90 minutes, with bullets reportedly flying over responding officers’ heads. A multi-agency SWAT team was deployed, and the tense standoff stretched into the early morning hours.

When entry was finally made, officers found Mercado dead inside the home from what investigators believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Suspect’s Background

Lt. Lopez confirmed that Mercado had a lengthy history with Stafford Police and was wanted on an aggravated robbery warrant at the time of the standoff.

Authorities have not yet determined the relationship between Mercado and Goodson.

Ongoing Investigation

The Stafford Police Department and partnering agencies continue to investigate the deadly incident.